
Fingerprints In The Water
Paperback: ISBN 978-1-997568-03-2/978-1-997568-07-0
Ebook: ISBN 978-1-997568-06-3/978-1-997568-08-7
Hardcover: ISBN TBD
Plot Synopsis
The ocean is in trouble—and the world is slow to notice. When Kai, a dragon-bonded teen on Canada’s east coast, uncovers disturbing signs of plastic and microplastic contamination, he and fellow Young Dragons begin to connect the dots. From rural watersheds to bustling cities, water systems are breaking down under the weight of pollution and corporate neglect. As governments stall and industries deny responsibility, the Young Dragons mobilize. Across borders and backgrounds, these teens lead grassroots efforts to test, clean, and protect the water that sustains them all. With ancient dragons at their side—silent, powerful companions who stand with them in every battle—they push back against apathy and inaction with science, unity, and unshakable resolve.
In a world on the edge of ecological collapse, Fingerprints In The Water is a powerful story of youth-driven change, environmental justice, and the quiet strength it takes to turn knowledge into action.
Detailed Synopsis
The water is no longer safe—and the world is still pretending it is. When dragon-bonded teen Kai discovers microplastics clogging a remote inlet near his coastal home, it sparks a chain of discoveries that point to a much bigger, much deeper problem. Across the globe, water systems are failing—choked by contamination, ignored by those in power, and weaponized by industries that treat ecosystems like dumping grounds. But this time, the world isn’t waiting for permission to act. As environmental disasters mount and institutional responses falter, the Young Dragons—an ever-growing network of teens bonded to dragons—begin to organize. Armed with science, solidarity, and the unyielding drive to protect their future, they lead grassroots efforts to test local waters, expose cover-ups, and clean up what others won’t even acknowledge.
Yet action comes with consequences. Grief, exhaustion, and division test their bonds as much as any environmental threat. But through it all, their dragons remain—silent guardians from another age, their presence a reminder of a deeper connection to the Earth and to the generations that came before. In the final moments, when the tide seems strongest against them, Kai and Amy must bring everything together—community, knowledge, and courage—for one last effort that might change everything… or prove just how far the damage has gone.
Fingerprints In The Water is a gripping, emotionally resonant YA novel about the power of youth to lead in the face of crisis. It is a call to awareness, to action, and to the understanding that no effort is too small when the future flows through your hands.
Genre Analysis
GENRE SUMMARY: Fingerprints In The Water is best described as contemporary YA climate fiction with strong elements of eco-fiction, social activism, and coming-of-age resilience. Grounded in the real-world fight for clean water, it blends emotional depth with science-driven storytelling, offering a powerful and inspiring look at youth-led change in the face of environmental crisis.
PRIMARY GENRE: Young Adult Contemporary
Young Adult Contemporary
- The novel is grounded in today’s world, focusing on teen characters navigating real, immediate environmental challenges without fantasy or futuristic elements.
Eco-Fiction/Climate Fiction (Cli-Fi)
- With its urgent focus on water contamination, microplastics, and ecological activism, the book is a strong example of climate fiction written for a YA audience.
- The story explores the intimate relationship between young people and the natural world, portraying environmental crisis and stewardship through both emotional and scientific lenses.
Realistic Fantasy
- The dragons function as symbolic companions rather than magical creatures, offering a mythological feel without crossing into full fantasy.
SECONDARY GENRES
Educational Fiction
- The book blends narrative with real-world environmental science, making it a valuable resource for classrooms and youth groups.
Canadian Literature
- With strong Canadian settings, themes, and cultural references, it contributes to regional and national literary identity
Literary YA
- The novel’s rich descriptive prose, emotional resonance, and layered themes appeal to readers who appreciate thoughtful, character-driven storytelling.
Age Range Analysis
RECOMMENDED AGE RANGE: 13+ (Upper Middle Grade & Young Adult)
CONTENT CONSIDERATIONS
- Depictions of water pollution and ecosystem damage
- Realistic portrayals of environmental activism and government inaction
- References to intergenerational conflict and social inequality
- Scenes of emotional distress, including grief and burnout
- Descriptions of microplastic contamination and marine life harm
- Non-graphic but emotionally intense environmental imagery
- Themes of climate responsibility, leadership, and youth action
READING LEVEL
- Accessible prose with strong emotional and descriptive depth
- Focused narrative structure through primary teen protagonists
- Clear exploration of environmental justice, ethics, and activism
- Blends character development with scientific awareness
- Emphasis on teamwork, resilience, and real-world problem-solving
SECONDARY AUDIENCES
- Educators teaching environmental science or sustainability
- Book clubs focused on climate fiction or youth-led change
- Parents and young readers exploring eco-conscious narratives
- Community organizers and youth groups focused on clean water
- Libraries seeking inclusive, socially relevant YA fiction
CONTENT NOTES
This novel contains themes of environmental degradation, grassroots activism, and emotional struggle related to climate grief. While there is no graphic violence or mature content, the emotional impact of ecological loss and systemic inaction may be intense for sensitive readers. It is best suited for upper middle grade and YA readers (13+) with interest in climate issues, science-informed fiction, and youth empowerment.
Themes/Topics:
- Water contamination and microplastic pollution
- Youth empowerment and intergenerational responsibility
- Grassroots organizing and environmental justice
- The role of science in activism and awareness
- Symbolic connection between dragons and natural forces
- Emotional resilience and collective leadership
Physical Content:
- Realistic descriptions of polluted waters and marine damage
- Community cleanups, public activism, and environmental research
- Non-violent tension with industry, media, and institutions
- Imagery of oceanic gyres, sunken ships, and debris spirals
Emotional Content:
- Grief over environmental loss and injustice
- Emotional exhaustion and the toll of advocacy work
- Reflection on legacy, sacrifice, and personal responsibility
- Moments of quiet strength, healing, and deep connection
- Exploration of friendship, love, and shared purpose
Educational Resources
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Book Catalog
Book | Series | Age Range |
---|---|---|
Loma | MacIver Kids Adventures | 10-13 |
Diversion | MacIver Kids Adventures | 12-17 |
Titan's Song | MacIver Kids Adventures | 12-17 |
Draconim Lacrima Mortis | Draconim | 12-17 |
Feeding The Fires | Draconim | 12-17 |
Fingerprints In The Water | Draconim | 12-17 |
Inversion | Standalone | 18+ |
RePHleXions: Echoes of Existence | Standalone | 18+ |
The Life Of Phi | Standalone | 16+ |
Leviticus 25: Jubilee | Standalone | 16+ |
The Mountain Hermits Animal Tales | Standalone | 4-8 |